Ballater Highland Games 2025

While the weather for the day started off well, for the first time in its history, the Games were cut short due to a spectacular lightning storm, downpours of rain and hailstones. The Games had to be ended early to keep everyone safe. Despite this early termination, many events were completed and enjoyed. 

The Chieftain, Philip Farquharson and the President, Sir Andrew Walker-Okeover made an earlier entrance to the Games this year at 1pm. His Majesty King Charles III Royal Guard, Balaklava Company, Royal Regiment of Scotland provided the guard of honour for the entrance parade. 

Earlier in the week, the Chieftain was granted his own Coat of Arms by The Lord Lyon King of Arms and the Court of the Lord Lyon which was flown while the Chieftain attended the Games. 

The Trust was very pleased to welcome the Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire, Sandy Manson, his wife Barbara. Invercauld Highlanders from Australia, Norway, USA and Canada were again welcomed.

The programme of light and heavy events, piping and dancing competitions went well until the premature stop due to the weather. As ever, the attendees were kept well informed by Robert Lovie. 

Having paraded through the village, the combined pipes and drums of Ballater and District, Towie, Kintore, Ellon and District RBL, Aberlour Community and District, Dufftown and District, Lathallan School, Alford Academy and Granite City paraded around Monaltrie Park arena along with The Heraldry Society of Scotland and the Balaklava Company 5 SCOTS adding traditional sound and colour to the Games. 

Again, the Games would not have been successful without the convenors and their many volunteer helpers, the combined pipe bands, the Royal Guard, our increasing cohort of sponsors, patrons, judges, retailers, hospitality and entertainment providers, comperes, photographers, first aiders, ambulance service, security and the many other support personnel. Sincere thanks go to all. 

Interest has increased due to the accessible layout of trade stands, making use of the park extension, and attracted 71 craft, food and entertainment vendors as well hospitality pitches and received much attention by Games attendees. 

Despite the weather cutting short the programme, the Games were reported to have been much enjoyed, and the Trustees look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2026.